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8 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 1 1. Program Requirements: A. Provide the title and a detailed description of the proposed workforce training. Title: AmSkills Manufacturing Recruitment, Skills Training & Apprentice Placement Expansion Initiative (AmSkills) Detailed Description: State of Manufacturing Workforce: It is estimated the US Manufacturing Industry will face a shortage of two million workers over the period. According to the Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte, creating a supply of workers with manufacturing skills will be critical to the future competitiveness of companies and the 1 industry. One of the major reasons the supply of workers continues to dwindle is the negative public perception of the manufacturing industry as a whole. The vast majority of Americans surveyed (roughly 8 in 10) continue to view US manufacturing as vital to maintaining the economic prosperity of the country. However, less than 5 in 10 Americans surveyed believe manufacturing jobs are interesting, rewarding, clean, safe, stable, and 2 secure. Unfortunately, only 37% of respondents in the Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte study stated they would encourage their children to pursue a manufacturing career, as 77% were concerned about job security/stability, 70% did not believe it was a strong career path, 64% believed the pay was not sufficient and 56% cited negative perception of the industry. The fact is these concerns are unfounded. For example, the average tenure in the manufacturing industry is the highest among all private-sector industries at 9.1 years 3 (2016); and many of these jobs have become high-tech and innovative. Regrettably, recruiting and hiring qualified employees in the State of Florida and the Tampa Bay area parallels the national problem. In 2016, CareerSource conducted the Tampa Bay Manufacturing Workforce Analysis Survey that included over 450 local manufacturing employers to better understand the desperate need for skilled employees. Respondents indicated they had collectively interviewed almost 4,000 potential hires, of which only 47% were qualified. The most cited reason respondents indicated the interviewees were not qualified was a lack of necessary technical skills. In addition, they were rejected for lack of work ethic and basic skills, poor communication skills and poor self-presentation. The study also found that Manufacturing Technicians and CNC Machinists have the highest overall anticipated vacancies moving 4 forward. The question now becomes, how do manufacturing companies attract qualified and passionate employees? Deloitte s 2017 Manufacturing Industry Study recommends, Investing in programs directed toward skill development, such as internships, apprenticeships, and certification programs, as these are the 5 types of programs Americans find most attractive. AmSkills is the program to invest in and has the solutions to address the concerns summarized above. Our unique Tampa Bay Regional program started operations in 2015 to specifically address the economic development workforce needs and to support the needs of manufacturers in Hernando, Pasco and Pinellas Counties. All three Counties currently uses AmSkills as a recruitment tool for businesses interested in relocating to the Tampa Bay area, as we address the issue of providing skilled labor to employers. 1 Giffi, C., et al The skills gap in U.S. manufacturing: 2015 and beyond. Washington, D.C.: Deloitte Development LLC and The Manufacturing Institute Rodriguez, M., et al A look ahead: How modern manufacturers can create positive perceptions with the U.S. public. Washington, D.C.: Deloitte Development LLC, The Manufacturing Institute and National Association of Manufacturers. Giffi, C., et al The skills gap in U.S. manufacturing: 2015 and beyond. Tampa Bay Manufacturing Workforce: Analysis Report. (2016). Tampa, FL: Tampa Bay Gap Analysis. Rodriguez, M., et al A look ahead: How modern manufacturers can create positive perceptions with the U.S. public.

9 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 2 Statement of Work: The AmSkills Program is in the third year of operations and has created a successful skills training and job placement program that is not only helping manufacturers fill vacant jobs, but more importantly helping to change people s lives. People like Nikki, a single mother of three living in a homeless shelter, who completed the AmSkills Adult Pre-Apprenticeship and was hired at a local manufacturer upon completion. She is now able to provide for her children and in the process of looking for more permanent housing. As stated above, manufacturing is one of the most difficult industries to recruit skilled talent. However, AmSkills has identified several creative ways to accomplish this and has succeeded thus far. This Job Growth Grant Fund Request is important to help AmSkills continue to develop our program and recruitment efforts to help manufacturers in the Tampa Bay Region. The primary goals of this grant request are to focus on: AmSkills Pre-Appren&ceship AmSkills Teaches Founda;onal Skills, Explore Mfg. Tracks & Tours AmSkills Primary Role Recruitment into Industry Youth, Adults, Veterans AmSkills Industry Liaison Mfg Recruitment, Appren;ce Onboarding & Mentor Training AmSkills Coordinates Job Placements Semi-Skilled & Appren;ces Hired by Manufacturers Appren&ceship Training Program Appren;ce Manufacturer AVends Related Training Training AmSkills* or School AmSkills*, Technical School, College or University AmSkills Provides Appren&ceship Program Management, Coaching & Coordinates OJT Training with Mfg s *NOTE: If local Technical School, College or University does not provide the specific training/educa;onal Recruitment for the Manufacturing Industry through the AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship Program Increasing Connections between Education and Industry by Moving AmSkills Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Program from After-School to an In-School Program Providing Increased Talent Pipeline Increasing Adult Training Participation for Young Adults, Veterans, Economically Disadvantaged and Women through Establishment of Neighborhood Training Center Increasing Hiring of Semi-Skilled Candidates and Apprentices by Manufacturers Development of Apprenticeship Programs with Industry Working with Schools, Colleges and Universities Creating a Path from Apprentice to Higher Education AmSkills offers a Youth and Adult Pre-Apprenticeship programs, which leads to job placement and an Apprenticeship with manufacturers within the Tampa Bay Region. The AmSkills Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Program is designed for juniors and seniors in high school. Students receive hands-on training in a real manufacturing production environment with highly skilled industry leaders and instructors. The Adult Pre- Apprenticeship Program helps adults ages 18 and up, veterans, those with disabilities and the economically disadvantaged, acquire the skills needed to launch a successful career in manufacturing. Through an Interlocal agreement between the three Counties, School Districts, local colleges and manufacturers, AmSkills has multiple training centers housed within local high schools and technical colleges. In today s world, many of our young adults do not have the parental involvement or guidance to help them determine a practical career path, especially when they lack a desire to pursue further academic studies or cannot afford college. Sadly, many of them are intimidated by Universities and Technical Colleges. In many cases, the school systems have pushed college so hard that there is a large group of young adults who are lost when they graduate. AmSkills is providing an alternative to those lost young adults, veterans and adults who are underemployed and looking to increase their career opportunities and wages. AmSkills provides this path for them, as well as future engineers who want to go to college. The AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship Program is the first step to launching a career in manufacturing or other industries. It provides foundational skills training, manufacturing job exploration through hands-on projects, manufacturer tours and job placement at local companies, with on-going coaching and Apprentice training. The AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship Programs teach basic safety and foundational skills needed by the manufacturing industry. Students then complete various hands-on projects, while exploring various advanced manufacturing career tracks (ie. Machinist {CNC}, Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, Tool and Die Maker and Electronics) to help them determine their interests and guide them into making a decision on the best career path for them. There are five career paths to securing a job through AmSkills including semiskilled positions, skilled Apprenticeship positions (which will require continued training for up to four additional years) or engineering positions (requiring advanced education at local colleges).

10 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 3 The AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship Programs are designed to replicate a real-work environment, with 80% hands-on training to prepare them for real-world jobs. Pre-Apprentices must clock-in and out, meet attendance goals, participate in team building exercises and complete hands-on projects. In addition, to help them better understand the jobs they are considering, AmSkills provides tours for the candidates at local manufacturers, so they can see first hand what the jobs entail, helping them make a decision on the best career track for them. Based on skill level, those who complete the Pre-Apprenticeship Program have the opportunity for job placement and to start in a paid job after successful completion of the adult program or upon turning 18 for Youth Pre-Apprentices. Candidates begin a 90-day Career Launch Phase working at a manufacturer that has been identified as the best fit for the candidate. An ideal match is determined by their interest in a specific career track, their transportation abilities, the company s needs and successful completion of all program goals. The AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship and Career Launch Programs are a value to local manufacturers because they act as a vetting process. To help Apprentice Candidates succeed on a long-term basis, AmSkills has created an innovative dualcoaching system, which ensures program participants receive the assistance and support needed for longterm success. The manufacturer is asked to identify potential mentors within their company who are required to take part in a series of Mentor Training classes. Once the Apprentice Candidate starts working for the company during the Career Launch Phase, an AmSkills Coach and Company Mentor are assigned and work together to help candidates develop the skills needed as they launch their career. Finally, at the conclusion of the 90-day Career Launch Phase, the manufacturer, Apprentice Candidate and AmSkills map out the Candidates Training Plan and the Candidate officially becomes an Apprentice, working for the manufacturer and supported by the AmSkills Coach. In addition, since most manufacturers do not have Apprentices, AmSkills works with them to ensure training for the Apprentice works in conjunction when on the job and/or during AmSkills training. The opportunity for paid, on-the-job skills building with top manufacturing and trade businesses while in high school, college, or training helps students gain greater insight to determine the appropriate progression to achieve their career goals. This program is innovative because students technical and soft skills are assessed before placement and matched with the needs and culture of corporate partners awaiting skilled workers. Students employed following AmSkills certification have a greater chance of a long-term career; students like 19-year-old Justyn Bowes, who first learned of our program in his high school engineering course. Before coming to AmSkills, he had a very difficult time finding a job, as he lacked the technical and foundational skills necessary to obtain employment. Justyn shared, I had a very difficult time finding a job the conventional way (ie. filling out applications, talking to managers and handing out my resume). No employer ever gave me a call back because of a lack of job experience. Without the skills I gained from classes AmSkills offered, I may have had to wait years for an opportunity to get into this career field. Today, Justyn is an official Apprentice at Pharmaworks, continues his training at AmSkills and is pursuing his Associates Degree at Pasco Hernando State College. Upon completion, he plans to pursue his Mechanical Engineering Degree and has an opportunity to take advantage of the tuition reimbursement program provided by Pharmaworks. In essence, Justyn has the opportunity to complete his Mechanical Engineering Degree and have five years experience as an Apprentice by the time he turns 24, making him an extremely valuable employee to Pharmaworks and the industry as a whole. (See Justyn s letter in attachments). Proposed Expansion of AmSkills Workforce & Apprenticeship Training Program: Until this year, the Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Program had been an afterschool program, which limited participation due to lack of transportation or other school activities (sports activities, clubs, etc.). In late 2017, AmSkills partnered with Pinellas County Schools to move the AmSkills Program as part of the school day for the Northeast High School Manufacturing Academy. AmSkills set up a training workshop within the school and provides instructors who teach hands-on activities and curriculum more relevant to the needs of the manufacturing industry. This Job Growth Grant request will help AmSkills further develop the Youth Pre- Apprenticeship Program as a part of the school day in Pinellas and other participating Counties. This will increase participation from an average of 6-8 students in the after-school program to more than 100 students per County. The result will be a much greater pool of ready-for-work high school students immediately upon their high school graduation. In 2017, AmSkills started a pilot Adult Pre-Apprenticeship Program. This 400-hour program initially took 4-months to complete; however, AmSkills has since reduced this to 3-months, giving students the ability to start a job or Apprenticeship in manufacturing much faster than the traditional technical college or university

11 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 4 path. To date, AmSkills has placed 23 of our student in jobs with local manufacturers in semi-skilled position or as Apprentice Candidates. AmSkills has the capacity to provide training for up to 48 adults, per location, per year. Our objective is to have a minimum of two locations per County. Combined with those who complete the Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Program, there is significant opportunity to increase the pipeline of candidates for the manufacturing industry. AmSkills goal this year is to put major focus on our recruiting/marketing efforts to help change public perception in order to attract more talent, both young and old, into both the Youth and Adult Pre- Apprenticeship Programs, and in turn, the industry. Tampa Bay currently has the largest concentration of manufacturers in the State of Florida; however 94% have less than 50 employees. The shortage of skilled labor has a greater impact on the long-term sustainability for these smaller companies. Most do not have an effective recruiting strategy and are too small to effectively recruit good talent in order to survive. Marketing and Recruitment Strategy: AmSkills has identified several strategies for recruitment into the industry utilizing creative ways to attract candidates for the Pre-Apprenticeship Programs including conducting multiple types of workshops at schools and community events through a Creative Metal Arts Program; a Mobile Workshop ; establishing a neighborhood training center; partnering with local non-profits and community organizations; and connecting with veteran organizations to provide job training opportunities for veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce. Creative Metal Arts Program: A 2015 Deoiltte Study commissioned by the national Manufacturing Institute APICS completed a study of women in manufacturing. The study indicated women make up 47% of the total labor force, but only 27% of the manufacturing workforce. 6 With women representing less than a third of the manufacturing workforce, it is clear manufacturers are missing out on a critical talent pool, which could aid remarkably in closing the skills gap. To help increase awareness in manufacturing among women and underserved populations, we plan on implementing the AmSkills Creative Metal Art Program to demonstrate how to use hand tools, measuring equipment, layout, design concepts and spot-welding in the creation of various art projects. The program is designed to introduce career opportunities and spark interest in the AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship. Our plan will be to promote the program in area middle and high schools, PACE for Girls, churches, and the general public. Programs will be conducted within AmSkills facilities, at special events within the community or at CareerSource locations utilizing the Hands-On Mobile Workshop. Mobile Workshop: This project is intended to provide hands-on workshops directly to our youth, young adults and veterans, allowing them to learn about the true manufacturing industry, helping dispel concerns about career trajectory, stability, security and pay. We believe if more people understand the true facts about the manufacturing industry, a channel to build a talented workforce will be created and skill gaps will begin to decrease. Our plan is to purchase a box truck type of vehicle and convert it to a Hands-On Mobile Workshop by adding lighting, workbenches, air conditioning, generator, chairs, hand tools and 3D Printers. This workshop will provide hands-on activities for up to 20 at a time. We are having significant success in helping youth, young adults and veterans start careers leading to high paying jobs in the manufacturing industry. We believe by having a Hands-On Mobile Workshop it will help us reach more at-risk youth and adults, helping them see a better future with the support they need to succeed. Our goal is to transition those who attend the workshops into the AmSkills Pre- Apprenticeship Program, thus increasing the channel of talent to our local manufacturing environment. According to the 2016 Tampa Bay Manufacturing Workforce Analysis Report, The economic recovery has led manufacturers to increase production, but they are facing challenges in hiring qualified workers for critical positions. Building a pipeline of skilled manufacturing workers will support local manufacturers and attract new businesses to the region. 7 In this report, AmSkills was named one of eight partnership organizations in the area providing a solution to the local need for skilled manufacturing applicants. Referral Program: AmSkills main objective is to help our students overcome challenges and succeed. Therefore, depending on the needs of the student, we will call upon other non-profits to help. There are many non-profit organizations helping youth, adults and veterans and our objective is to collaborate with 6 Giffi, C., et al Women in manufacturing study: Exploring the gender gap. Washington, D.C.: Deloitte Development LLC, The Manufacturing Institute and APICS Supply Chain Council. 7 Tampa Bay Manufacturing Workforce: Analysis Report. (2016). Tampa, FL: Tampa Bay Gap Analysis.

12 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 5 each of them to ensure we are all providing the highest level of service to our clients. AmSkills often has students who would benefit from the services of other non-profits, but may not know how to go about asking for help. As an example, Alex Grewe was a 22-year-old veteran who did not have transportation to get to and from the Adult Pre-Apprenticeship Program. On the second day of class, AmSkills learned he was walking 3-miles to attend the program. Once AmSkills staff learned of this, we contacted a non-profit Bike Ministry that donated a bike to Alex. By the third day of class, Alex had his own bicycle and reduced rates from the County bus system to help him get to and from training. AmSkills can also help clients of other non-profits gain skills needed to launch their careers. Therefore, we are planning to a launch an initiative to bring them together and develop a referral program. Veteran Skills Transitioning Program: AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship Program is the perfect skills training program to assist veterans in transitioning to civilian careers. Many of the skills veterans have learned in the military can be applied in the manufacturing industry and their disciplined approach will help ensure success. AmSkills will secure a veteran liaison that can help educate and recruit veterans into the AmSkills programs. Neighborhood Training Center: One way of increasing youth and adult involvement in the Pre- Apprenticeship Programs is to bring training to the neighborhood level by securing space within local recreation/community centers to conduct workshops for existing youth camps, adults and persons with disabilities. These types of facilities are a natural place for youth to come after school to participate in recreational activities; for parents to bring their kids; for teenagers to hang-out; and for adults to participate in sports leagues. This, in turn, provides the ideal situation to conduct our marketing and recruitment efforts. By partnering with local city/county departments, we can introduce programs, such as the Creative Arts Program and Introduction to Hand-Tools, Lathes, Mills, etc. Having an AmSkills Training Center located within a neighborhood setting would help eliminate transportation issues for youth and those unemployed, while also allowing AmSkills the ability to recruit for the manufacturing industry in a creative way. B. Describe how this proposal supports programs at state colleges or state technical centers. AmSkills has developed a number of professional partnerships with local colleges and technical colleges to help transition AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship Program graduates to their Manufacturing programs. We have successfully partnered with St. Petersburg College (Mechatronics Program), Pinellas Technical College (Machining Program) and Pasco-Hernando State College (Manufacturing Program). Essentially, AmSkills acts as a feeder system for these programs, which enables them to enroll more qualified students. In addition, by providing a more in-depth hands-on training to our Apprentices, AmSkills allows our graduates to better determine their ideal career path before entering an educational institution, saving time, money and resources by reducing the number of student transfers or withdrawals. C. Describe how this proposal provides participants transferable, sustainable workforce skills applicable to more than a single employer. The AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship Program trains Apprentice Candidates on the basic foundational skills specifically requested by the manufacturing industry. AmSkills has Emco and Haas equipment; the former being educational training machines and the latter being typical production machines which are primarily used by the local machining companies. There are many machining companies in the Tampa Bay area and there is a general shortage of trained machinists in the job market. The high-demand skills acquired through AmSkills are transferable to a variety of employers, with Haas equipment being the predominant manufacturers' equipment of choice. In addition, we are in the process of partnering with local city and county agencies, including public works, natural gas and utilities departments to build skilled positions for those agencies as well. AmSkills not only focuses on the technical skills needed, but also soft skills including team work, communications, presentations, attendance and many others. In addition, we also incorporate lessons on life skills including finance, managing money and setting goals. We believe if we can create a well-rounded candidate, they will have greater success not only in their career, but also in life. Skills taught include: Foundational Skills Basic Tools Standard & Metric Intro to Career Tracks Manufacturer Tours Manual Lathe & Mill Intro to Welding Fabrication & Assembly 3D Printing Design & Build Electronics Pneumatics Hydraulics Preparing a Resume Interviewing Skills Training Working in Teams Presentation Skills Ethics in the Workplace Time Clock Tracking O-J-T

13 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 6 AmSkills has five Florida Department of Education Registered Apprenticeships, which were created based on Tampa Bay Regional top jobs needed, including Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, Machining (CNC), Tool and Die Maker and Electronics. AmSkills has either placed or is in the process of placing semiskilled and skilled Apprentice candidates into paid jobs at companies such as Mettler Toledo, Tru- Simulation, Polaris, LeaderTech, FACT s, Oscor, Pharmaworks, BK Plastics, H & S Swanson, Integral Machining, Surge Suppression, Micromatic, Jabil, Polypack, RevTech, Molex, MSP, Mastercut, Promation Engineering, ICTC Global, Bic Graphic, West FL Precision Machining, Seaway Plastics, Barrette s, Bosch Osgood, SMT and others. D. Describe how this proposal supports a program(s) that is offered to the public? AmSkills has created a successful Apprenticeship Workforce Training Program that can be replicated in other Counties in Florida and the United States. Our board of directors include key stakeholders dedicated to making this a reality, including 3 Manufacturers, 3 County Commissioners, 3 County School Superintendents and the Presidents of St Petersburg College (SPC) and Pasco Hernando State College. AmSkills objective is to support any program offered to the public that falls in line with our mission of helping youth, adults and veterans obtain hands-on technical skilled and trade experience, helps local manufacturers secure qualified long-term employees and drives competitive economic growth by providing a well-trained community workforce. We are currently working with the Packing Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI) to develop a Mechatronics Apprentice Program in conjunction with their 15 Tampa Bay member companies, including Mettler Toledo, Bosch, Bic Graphics, Polypack and others. Currently, there is no standardized curriculum available for teaching Mechatronics. AmSkills, in partnership with SPC, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and others, is establishing an Apprenticeship Training Curriculum that will be introduced during the AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship Program. It will then be continued during the AmSkills Apprenticeship, while receiving on-the-job training and attending SPC Mechatronics classes. This combination is expected to increase participation in SPC courses, while also providing a true Apprenticeship Program for the local PMMI Member and other companies. Mark Goodman, Industry Training Consultant for Amatrol, Inc. stated As a professional consultant who specializes in industrial technology training, I have the opportunity to tour facilities and manufacturing plants across the entirety of North America, and very few of them can compare to the level of industry specific training you (AmSkills) are providing your students. I am confident you are providing the type of training that American Industry is in dire need of. You should be very proud of the work you are doing, and I look forward to watching your program continue to grow. E. Describe how this proposal is based on criteria established by the state colleges and state technical centers. Based on our intention to help local colleges and technical colleges enroll more qualified students, our program is designed to align with their educational structure and industry certification requirements, in addition to the needs of manufacturing companies. Over 90% of Florida manufacturing companies have less than 50 employees. The feedback manufacturers are constantly giving to training organizations and colleges is that candidates need more relevant hands-on skills. So, in addition to our theoretical based curriculum offering a pathway to educational institutions, AmSkills training is heavily focused on providing the hands-on skills most students lack when not completing our program. In addition, AmSkills continually examines the Florida Department of Education Curriculum Framework, various agencies (ie. NIMS, PMMI) certification requirements and local manufacturing company needs to guarantee we are providing quality programs to our students. This, in turn, will lead them to success as they pursue higher education. F. Does this proposal support a program(s) that will not exclude unemployed or underemployed individuals? þ Yes No

14 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 7 G. Describe how this proposal will promote economic opportunity by enhancing workforce training. Please include the number of program completers anticipated to be created from the proposed training. Further, please include the economic impact on the community, region, or state and the associated metrics used to measure the success of the proposed training. Chart A. Pinellas County Economic Development commissioned a Comprehensive Regional Workforce Assessment, which was completed by the Site Selection Group in November This Assessment identified the Key Workforce Challenges (see Chart A) in the Tampa Bay Region. A few of the top challenges identified included Lack of Skill/Experience/ Qualification, Work Ethic, Educational System, and Aging Workforce. 8 The National Association of Manufacturers has always contended that every dollar spent in manufacturing more than doubles in the general US economy. Additionally, from local surveys in 2014 and 2016, we have heard many manufacturing companies are limited in their ability to grow because of skill shortages. Providing skilled workers to fill vacancies allows both the manufacturer and the local economy to grow. Bill Cronin, President and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council, states, When companies come to us looking to make their location decisions for relocation or expansions, one of the first things they normally ask is what about the quality of our workforce. Without a quality workforce, companies cannot guarantee the sustainability of a good talent pipeline for their business growth. AmSkills is helping us to provide a talent pipeline for the manufacturing industry in our county. To date, our unique programs and partnerships have helped attract several companies to Pasco County, bringing more than 800 new jobs, including Mettler Toledo and TouchPoint Medical. According to the Florida Chamber of Commerce, manufacturing contributes more than $40 billion to Florida s economy, where for every 10 jobs created in Florida s export-oriented manufacturing, 12 more jobs are created in transportation, warehousing and retail. Wages earned by manufacturing employees in Tampa Bay reached over $71,000, far more than the state s manufacturing average wage of $54, This fact means workers have more purchasing power to invest back into the economy. Tampa Bay currently has more than 5,000 businesses representing more than 61,000 employees. Those employees income contribution adds nearly $9 billion to the local economy and each manufacturing job created results in an additional 2.65 jobs. AmSkills Training & Apprenticeship Programs directly addresses the workforce shortage and industry growth. We are expected to expand on our current successes by creating 150 new jobs over the next two years. This number does not include the additional jobs created from the local Economic Development recruitment efforts using AmSkills as a tool to lure new manufactures to Florida and the Tampa Bay Region. AmSkills is also dedicated to introducing new ideas to our school, County and economic development officials, therefore we coordinate trips to Switzerland and Germany so they can see firsthand how the very successful European Apprenticeship Model works. A key emphasis of this trip includes organizing meetings with European companies to introduce them to the opportunities of relocating or expanding to Florida and the Tampa Bay area. In 2017, ten European Companies participated in a luncheon and eight gave tours of their facilities for the AmSkills Delegation. 8 Pinellas County Economic Development: Comprehensive Regional Workforce Assessment. (2017). Site Selection Group: Strategic Location Solutions. 9 Florida Chamber of Commerce. (n.d.) Advocacy Issues Manufacturing. [Web page]. Retrieved from flchamber.com/advocacy/issues/manufacturing/

15 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 8 Success Metrics: Objective 1: Increase the number of participants in the Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Fully convert from an after-school program to a during school program in at least two counties Total # of participants that start the program # of Certificates earned during the program Total # of participants that finish the program # of Apprentices Total # of participants that attend college or are placed in a semi-skilled job or as an Apprentice Candidate at completion of the program Objective 2: Increase the number of participants in the Adult Pre-Apprenticeship Secure at least one location to operate adult programs in Pinellas County Total # of participants that start the program # of Certificates earned during the program Total # of participants that finish the program # of Apprentices Total # of participants that attend college or are placed in a semi-skilled job or as an Apprentice Candidate at completion of the program 2. Additional Information: (If additional space is needed, attach a word document with your entire answer.) A. Is this an expansion of an existing training program? þyes No If yes, please provide an explanation for how the funds from this grant will be used to enhance the existing program. AmSkills has established the framework that is on the verge of becoming one of the best workforce training models in the State of Florida and beyond. In order to accomplish this, additional funding is needed to take AmSkills to the next level. AmSkills intends to enhance existing programs by completing the following: Recruitment: Funding from this grant will be used to increase marketing & recruitment efforts in creative ways such as conducting Creative Metal Arts and other programs; securing and utilizing the hands-on mobile workshop to conduct workshops at special events, local businesses (such as Home Depot) and for middle & high school students; and providing basic foundational skills training in partnerships with local staffing agencies who are having difficulty finding skilled labor for their clients. The goal of the AmSkills recruitment process will be to increase participation of youth, young adults ( years), veterans, economically disadvantaged and women in AmSkills programs. Youth Pre-Apprenticeship: Currently AmSkills is providing curriculum and instruction to 80+ high school students in a pilot program in Pinellas County in an effort to transition the Pre-Apprenticeship from an afterschool program to during school. AmSkills is bearing the full cost of this pilot program. Funding from this grant will be used to cover the costs and overhead of the pilot program, as we work to secure school funding in 2019 and In addition, AmSkills is working with Pasco and Hernando County School Systems as well. Funding from this grant will help cover costs as we work with the school systems to accomplish this. If achieved, there will not only be a significant increase in participation in the program, but will also ensure a greater industry influence over the curriculum resulting in increase job and Apprentice placements as students graduate high school. Adult Pre-Apprenticeship: The AmSkills Adult Pre-Apprenticeship Program is helping to change lives of young adults and veterans who do not know what career to pursue, however this is one of the most difficult target markets to recruit. Funds from this grant will help to increase recruitment efforts to young adults, women, the economically disadvantaged, veterans and persons with disabilities, as well as overall operating costs for materials and conducting field trips to local manufacturers.

16 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 9 Hands-On Bootcamp for Engineering Graduates: The Florida Chamber Foundation conducted a survey in 2016 and asked colleges and employers How well prepared are new graduates to go directly into the workforce? Colleges overwhelmingly responded with 89% indicating they ARE ready for work, while only 11% of employers said they were ready. This clearly shows there is a huge gap between what colleges perceive students are learning and what employers are seeing in the workplace. Richard Valdez is a current AmSkills Pre-Apprentice who is 32-hours away from receiving his Mechanical Engineering degree. Richard indicated, I had more hands-on experience in the first two weeks of the AmSkills program then I had my entire time at a State University here in Florida it made me realize great engineers need hands-on understanding on how things are made. With funding from this grant, AmSkills intends to develop a Hands-On Engineering Bootcamp for students currently enrolled in engineering classes or graduates. The program will be designed to have hands-on projects in each of the AmSkills career tracks that will maximize what they learned in college. In addition, projects will be designed to assess their abilities, provide tours to local manufacturers and may include placement in with local manufacturers upon completion of the program. Apprentice On-Boarding, Training & Curriculum: AmSkills has been, in construction terms, a designbuild project. This means we have been designing all aspects of the Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship Programs, while we are in operation. The first two years of operation has resulted in a good quality program; however we now have students who are becoming Apprentices in five career tracks. Most manufacturers do not have Apprenticeship Programs, therefore we are in the process of working directly with them to develop curriculum and projects to enhance Apprentice learning, while working on the job and at AmSkills or a local college. B. Does the proposal align with Florida s Targeted Industries? (View Florida s Targeted Industries here.) þyes No If yes, please indicate the specific targeted industries with which the proposal aligns. If no, with which industries does this proposal align? AmSkills aligns directly with the manufacturing industry, but is a training program that supports all industries targeted by Enterprise Florida on the list of Qualified Targeted Industries: Manufacturing Info Tech Aviation/Aerospace Homeland Security/Defense Financial/Profession Services - Engineering C. Does the proposal align with an occupation(s) on the Statewide Demand Occupations List and/or the Regional Demand Occupations List? (View Florida s Demand Occupation List here) þ Yes No If yes, please indicate the occupation(s) with which the proposal aligns. If no, with which occupation does the proposal align? First-Line Superv. of Mechanics, Installers and Repairers First-Line Superv. of Production and Operating Workers General and Operations Managers Industrial Machinery Mechanics Machinists Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines Operating Engineers/Construction Equipment Operators Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers

17 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 10 D. Indicate how the training will be delivered (e.g., classroom-based, computer-based, other). If in-person, identify the location(s) (e.g., city, campus, etc.) where the training will be available. If computer-based, identify the targeted location(s) (e.g., city, county, statewide) where the training will be available. The AmSkills Apprenticeship Training Program primarily is 80% hands-on combined with 20% classroom/online utilizing the SME (Society of Manufacturing Engineers) computer based learning program called Tooling-U. There are three training centers located between the three counties, Pasco (Marchman Technical College), Pinellas (Northeast High School) and Hernando (Brooksville Airport Industrial Park Training Center); with the goal to establish up to two more locations (one in Pasco and one in Pinellas). In addition, AmSkills coordinates tours of local manufacturers to help the candidates see first-hand what the job will look like. This helps them determine what career path to take upon completion of the Pre- Apprenticeship. Through the Mobile Workshop we also anticipate being able to provide very basic training within the community. E. Indicate the number of anticipated annual enrolled students and completers in the proposed program. Adult Pre-Apprenticeship: Typically, we can train up to 12 adults per class, per location. AmSkills can schedule up to four programs per year for the Marchman facility. We are awaiting confirmation to conduct adult classes at Northeast High School. In addition it is our goal to add another location in Pinellas County in the Neighborhood Training Center or possibly at a manufacturer. We conducted three adult pilot programs in 2017 in Pasco County with an attendance of 21 and had 20 completers. Through this grant, we anticipate being able to increase marketing and recruitment efforts, however it is still a difficult target market to recruit, therefore we are being conservative and will project for each location in 2019 and for 2020, per county totaling 45 to 65 enrolled with a 95% estimated completion rate totaling Youth Pre-Apprenticeship: Pasco and Hernando Counties: Currently this is an after-school program for high school Juniors and Seniors, which competes against school sports/social activities and has some transportation problems; therefore enrollment is more challenging. We are moving our start dates for the after-school program to begin after Manufacturing Day in October, giving us the opportunity to recruit during the months of September and October; therefore for these two Counties we are projecting new enrolled. AmSkills currently has 15 enrolled in these two Counties. Part of the grant funds will enable AmSkills to work with the school districts in these two counties in an effort to move the program as a part of the school day, thus increasing participation. The goal is to have this accomplished in Pasco County Schools by Fall Pinellas County: In 2017, AmSkills transitioned the after school program into the school day at Northeast High School as part of the Automotive and Manufacturing Academy. AmSkills is providing full time technical instructors, however no funding is currently allocated by the school system to cover our costs. The goal is to build the program in order to warrant a paid teacher funded by the school system in fall of Currently there are 30 freshman, 40 sophomores, 10 juniors and 6 seniors in the program. Our goal will be to have a 75% retention rate of sophomores finish the program by the time they are seniors. In addition the goal is to increase total program enrollment to 30 each grade for at total of 120 in the program. Since this is the first year of the program, retention rates are difficult to project. F. Indicate the length of program (e.g., quarters, semesters, weeks, etc.), including anticipated beginning and ending dates. Adult Pre-Apprenticeship: This program is planned to operate every quarter. Upon successful completion of 400 hours, candidates will be placed at local manufacturers in semi-skilled jobs or as Apprentices with a combination of on-the-job training and training based on the track they selected. 2018: October December 2019: January March 2019: April June 2019: July September 2019: October - December 2020: January March 2020: April June 2020: July September 2020: October December

18 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 11 Youth Pre-Apprenticeship: Pasco and Hernando Counties: October 2018 May 2020 (After-School Program for Juniors & Seniors) August 2019 May 2023 (Once it is part of the school day offered to freshman) Pinellas County: August 2019 May 2023 (for current Freshmen) G. Describe the plan to support the sustainability of the program after grant completion. Florida Statute states that there are no tuition fees for registered apprentices for related instruction provided through Local Education Agencies (LEA) as stipulated in Florida Statute The only costs would be tools, books, and materials needed for the trade. This program does not supply vouchers or loans for those seeking to participate in the apprenticeship program, nor would they provide relocation expenses. AmSkills was established as a separate entity from the Local Education Agencies in order to ensure greater manufacturing industry input into the curriculum/training offered and to be more flexible to adjust based on the industry needs. Unfortunately, this means AmSkills is considered a Private Apprenticeship in the eyes of the State of Florida Department of Education, as it relates to funding. Therefore, AmSkills does not qualify for the State Funding for Apprenticeship Training under Florida Statute We have been exploring options to capture this funding for our Youth and Adult Pre-Apprenticeship Programs and Apprenticeship Training Program, including seeking licensure through the Independent Education Institution or partnering with a Charter School or School System in order for us to take advantage of Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) state funding. A portion of this grant funding will allow AmSkills to further explore those options. In addition, our current sustainability plan includes charging fees for the Adult Pre-Apprenticeship program. If students are unable to pay those fees, AmSkills directs them to CareerSource, as we are an Approved Training Provider in Pasco and Hernando counties. We are in the process of securing that status in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties as well. If they qualify, CareerSource will pay their enrollment fees; last year, 35% of our enrollees were able to take advantage of this important resource. Upon completion of the Pre-Apprenticeship (both youth and adult programs) an AmSkills Coach works with the Candidate to place them working at a local manufacturing company where they complete a 90-Day Career Launch Phase. AmSkills charges the manufacturer a placement fee for candidates placed, which generates additional revenue. Fees are also charged to cover Apprenticeship Training, when no other source is available. AmSkills also intends to develop additional programs as outlined within this grant application to include onsite training for staffing or other companies utilizing our mobile workshop; the Engineering Hands-On Bootcamp; and other programs. Furthermore, in June, 2018, AmSkills created the AmSkills Apprenticeship Foundation, which is designated as exempt under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 501 (c)(3). We are further classified as a Type I supporting organization under IRC Section 509 (a)(3). Through this Foundation, AmSkills is able to seek additional funding as a nonprofit organization. The AmSkills Apprenticeship Foundation has already secured pledges of support from individual donors and Foundations. Finally, AmSkills will actively apply for additional funding, continually submit grants and network with the local businesses, community members and other philanthropic organizations to raise awareness about our important and necessary program. We will also continue to partner with local manufacturers to assist with equipment and instructor needs. AmSkills has long-standing partnerships with several organizations dedicated to our cause in Pasco, Pinellas and Hernando counties. Also, it is anticipated that several prospective funders will offer support in the following year.

19 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 12 H. Identify any certifications, degrees, etc. that will result from the completion of the program. Please include the Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) code and the percent of completer in each code, corresponding with Section E. The AmSkills Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship Training will lead to industry certifications that are a part of the NAM-Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System, which can be expanded into articulation options for students. During the Pre-Apprenticeship, students begin a range of industry recognized certifications available through credential bodies including the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) Certificates; in addition to their Registered Apprenticeship Certificate provided by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) upon completion of their AmSkills Apprenticeship Program at the manufacturer. Basic certifications may be achieved during the Pre-Apprenticeship Program; however the majority will be completed during the Apprenticeship. Nationally Recognized: CIP Credential Name % of Completers MSSC Hours Applied Towards Engineering Technology / A.S. Degree Advanced Manfacturing 75% NIMS Machining Technologies 95% PMMI Mechatronics 95% PMMI Pneumatics, Hydraulics & Motors for Manfacturing 95% I. Does this program have a local match amount? þ Yes No If yes, please describe the entity providing the match and the amount (Do not include in-kind) The ICTC Governing Board, dba AmSkills, was initially launched in 2015 through a $1.2 Million grant from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunities to establish training centers across three Tampa Bay Counties. Upon the completion of the FDEO grant, each County contributed $200,000 per County, creating an annual budget match of $1.2 Million through FY16/17; and extended contributions in FY17/18 in the amount of $575,000. In addition, AmSkills received a $300,000 grant from the Florida Department of Education in FY 16/17 and completed all deliverables to start-up the pilot program for the Adult Pre- Apprenticeship Program; added additional machinery and tooling; two-stations of welding equipment to provide an introduction to welding class; and 3D Printers at one location. In FY18/19, AmSkills will be receiving a State Appropriation in the amount of $50,000 which is being used to develop software for tracking Apprentices time while at work, in training or at school; marketing, overhead and 10% to seek other grants and funding. The School districts in Pinellas and Pasco Counties also provide facilities in-kind to house the AmSkills training centers. Pasco County has committed $175,000 (pending final budget approval in September 2018) for upcoming fiscal year 18/19. Hernando County has already indicated they cannot contribute because of budget issues. Also, in November 2018, the Homestead Exemption is on the ballot to increase. If this passes, Pinellas County has indicated they will not be able to contribute funding for the upcoming fiscal year. They currently have $150,000 pending until after the November vote, however AmSkills is planning that this funding will not be available. All three Counties, school districts and local colleges are committed to helping the AmSkills program continue to grow and to become self-sustaining through program and placement fees. AmSkills has established a separate 501c3 non-profit to expand financial contributions from industry, private foundations and other private contributors. To date AmSkills has received more than $50,000 donations and intends to increase our fundraising efforts; however funding from the Job Growth Grant Fund is needed to carry us through 2020 where we anticipate being self-sustaining.

20 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 13 J. Provide any additional information or attachments to be considered for the proposal. The attached Letters of Commitment demonstrate the broad base of support from industry, industry associations, government and other educational partners. The attached Thank you Letters from AmSkills students and their parents represent the direct positive impact AmSkills has on the lives of those we serve. Economic Development Agencies/School Districts/Other Government Agencies o United States Congressman Gus M. Bilirakis o The White House, Ivanka Trump o Hernando County Commissioner Wayne Dukes o Pasco County Commissioner, Kathy Starkey o Pasco County Economic Development, President and CEO Bill Cronin o Pinellas County Economic Development, Director Mike Meidel o Pasco County Schools, Superintendent of Schools, Kurt Browning o Pinellas County Schools Executive Director of Adult, Technical & Career Education Mark Hunt Manufacturers and Associations o Upper Tampa Bay Manufacturing Association, Jerry Custin o PharmaWorks, President and ICTC Governing Board Chairperson Peter Buczynsky o Southern Manufacturing Technologies, President Roy Sweatman o Accuform, Inc., Vice President John Murphy o A-B-C Packing Machine Corp., President Mark Reichert o Bosch Packing Technology/Osgood Industries, Inc., Materials Manager Uwe Richter Parent/Student/Apprentice Thank you letters o Justyn Bowes o Justin Tozzi/Junique Silva-Tozzi o Richard Valdez o Len W. Mortensen o Carolyn Baker o Samuel Gates/Michaela Gates

21 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page Program Budget 4.) Provide a detailed budget narrative, including the timing and steps necessary to obtain the funding, how equipment purchases will be associated with the training program, if applicable, and any other pertinent budget-related information. AmSkills is requesting funds to support the following budget items, which will maintain and enhance the AmSkills Youth & Adult Pre-Apprenticeship, Job Placement & Coaching and Apprenticeship Training programs. Budgeted funds are based on an estimated timeline of two years. The timeline for hiring, equipment purchases, renovations and other items are outlined below in the budget narrative. The proper procurement procedures and approvals, including a quote or bid process and review, will take place prior to the purchase/lease of all equipment. AmSkills Manufacturing Recruitment, Skills Training & Apprentice Placement Expansion Initiative Grant Period: October 1, October 1, 2020 Grant Budget YEAR 1 YEAR 2 TOTAL EQUIPMENT AmSkills does not have a location to conduct programs in Pinellas County, therefore our plan is to open a "Neighborhood Training Center" or a location at a manufacturer in Pinellas County in Year 1. Then, in year 2, we will expand from one location to two for Pasco County (east Pasco). In order to do this we will need the following equipment: 2 Grizzly Surface Grinders 8x20, 1 Haas CNC ST10 Lathe and Tailstock, 1 Tailstock for Haas CNC ST10 (Existing Machine), 1 Amatrol - Mechanical Drives, Welding Equipment, Manual Lathes (2), Misc. Tooling for Apprenticeship Class (ie. Gauges, Measuring $152,269 $152,269 $304,538 Equip.), 2 Tooling Packages for CNC Mill & Lathe, 2 Air Compressors (5HP), 1 Amatrol Hydraulic/Trainer, 1 Amatrol Gear Pulley Trainer, 450' Conduit 1/2" (2), 2 Small Mill Drills (G0759), 2 Small Mill Drills (G0755) and 2 Small Drill Lathes. TOTAL EQUIPMENT $304,538 Grant Budget YEAR 1 YEAR 2 TOTAL FACILITIES Estimated costs for the preparation of facilities for additional equipment - Electrical, Pneumatics, Extraction $76,491 $35,491 $111,982 TOTAL FACILITIES $111,982 Grant Budget YEAR 1 YEAR 2 TOTAL TUITION AmSkills does not charge for the Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Program and is currently not receiving any $66,000 $30,000 $96,000 funding from the school system, therefore these tuition/instructor costs are for the Youth Pre- Apprenticeship Programs which are conducted at Northeast High School and in Pasco & Hernando Counties. AmSkills is working with all school systems to move the program into the school day, which will then be mostly funded by the schools (targeing fall 2019). TOTAL TUITION $96,000 Grant Budget YEAR 1 YEAR 2 TOTAL TRAINING MATERIALS AmSkills utilizes the Society of Manufacturing Engineers Tooling-U online program to support the academic $5,000 $5,000 $10,000 portion of the Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship Programs. Software licenses must be purchased on an annual basis. AmSkills programs are 80% hands on project based learning, which requires various raw materials, training kits, small tools and other consumables in order to properly provide hands-on experience. During the Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship Program, there are testing fees required in order for the student to receive national certifications in 6 NIMs modules per year. Funding is being requested to pay for 24 CNC Machining Students. $18,600 $18,600 $37,200 $5,760 $5,760 $11,520 TOTAL TRAINING MATERIALS $29,360 $29,360 $58,720

22 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page 15 Grant Budget YEAR 1 YEAR 2 TOTAL PERSONNEL Executive Director - (Existing position) With the loss of funding from Pinellas & Hernando 75% of total salary 75% of total salary Counties, additional funding is needed for the Executive Director to continue the progress of the program with the intent to become fully self-sustaining after Time spent will be on leadership in establishing the Youth & Adult Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship Programs; Marketing & Recruitment of Industry and students; working with Local Education Agencies & Universities regarding consistent curriculum pathways based on "industry needs"; working to secure sustainable funding options working with the LEA's, Career Source and other agencies; as well as overseeing all fundraising efforts from the non-profit. Recruitment & Placement Manager - (Existing) This position focuses on recruitment for the 80% of total salary 80% of total salary Youth & Adult Apprenticeship Programs, including conducting workshops, attending job fairs, school open houses, college events, community events, etc. to recruit students into programs; works with students while the are participating in AmSkills programs; meets with parents and/or students and the Apprenticehip Coach to discuss placments; and works with manufactuers to coordinate hiring and placements. Mobile Workshop Coordinator - (Existing) This person handles both AmSkills Administration and is the coordinator/instructor for the Mobile Workshop and the Creative Metal Arts Program for women. The primary purpose of this funding is to increase our community recruitment efforts for industry opportunities availble to women, economically disadvantaged and high risk youth. 65% of total salary 65% of total salary Project Manager & Project Accounting - This person is responsible for coordinating project purchases, obtaining bids, managing and monitoring project deliverables, providing project reports and overall project accounting. In addion, this person monitors Apprenticeship Placements & Training Reports. 65% of total salary 65% of total salary Master Instructor - The person oversees the development of the curriculum for all Apprenticeship Tracks (5) working with industry and manufacturers, schools, etc., identifying/creating related hands-on projects that are related/consistent with the curriculum; works with the manufacturers to ensure their on-the-job training is consisent with their Apprenticeship Training. 100% of total salary 100% of total salary Grant Writer - This contract role is responsible for overall grant management and reporting, as well as development and program growth. 100% of work completed 100% of work completed Industry Liaison & Apprentice Coaching Coordinator - This new position will be responsible 100% of total salary 100% of total salary for being the direct contact with local manufacturers, recruiting new companies, securing contracts and works with the Recruitment & Placement Manager for new placements. This person will be responsible for creating an Apprentice Coaching Program, recruiting new "volunteer" coaches who are retiring from manufacturing. Once the Apprentice is hired, this person will be responsible for working with all Apprentice Coaches and maintaing a good relationship with all Manufacturers to ensure Apprentices are successful. It is projected this position will be hired within 2 months of grant start date. Veteran Liaison/Recruiter - This new position is intended to be a veteran who can help introduce and recruit veterans into AmSkills programs. They will attend events held on local military stations or other military events to promote AmSkills Programs. 100% of total salary 100% of total salary FICA/SS/WC - These are the indirect payroll and other taxes associated with all personnel listed above. 100% of total salary 100% of total salary TOTAL PERSONNEL $503,060

23 Florida Job Growth Grant Application AmSkills Grant Attachments Page Approvals and Authority (If additional space is needed, attach a word document with your entire answer.) A. If entity is awarded grant funds based on this proposal, what approvals must be obtained before it can execute a grant agreement with the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (e.g., approval of a board, commission or council)? All grant funds the ICTC Governing Board dba the American Manufacturing Skills Initiative (AmSkills) applies for are pre-approved by the Executive Director and the Board of Trustees (BOT). Therefore, they are pre-approved even before the AmSkills receives notification of an award or rejection. This approval affords AmSkills to accept the funding, enter into any amendments, extensions or agreements as necessary, within the original intent and purpose of the grant. A second or follow-up approval by the BOT is not needed if and when an award is made. B. If approval of a board, commission, council or other group is needed prior to execution of an agreement between the entity and the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity: i. Provide the schedule of upcoming meetings for the group for a period of at least six months. The ICTC Governing Board s upcoming meeting dates are scheduled for September 18, 2018 and December 6, ii. State whether entity is willing and able to hold special meetings, and if so, upon how many days notice. The ICTC Governing Board can hold special meetings via the designated Executive Committee or the full Board when necessary. All meetings require a seven-day notice. C. Attach evidence that the undersigned has all necessary authority to execute this proposal on behalf of the entity. This evidence may take a variety of forms, including but not limited to: a delegation of authority, citation to relevant laws or codes, policy documents, etc. Article II of the ICTC Governing Board By-Laws state the following as evidence that the undersigned has all necessary authority to execute the proposal on behalf of the entity.

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28 POLICY COUNCIL Jimmy Adcock Tampa Electric/Peoples Gas Dr. Timothy Beard Pasco-Hernando State College Denny Moller Saint Leo University Sarah Naumowich Morton Plant North Bay Hospital/BayCare Randy Surber Florida Hospital Zephyrhills BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jimmy Adcock Chair Tampa Electric/Peoples Gas Keith Appenzeller Vice Chair King Engineering Associates Kristi Cheatham Pettit Secretary/Treasurer Clearwater Gas System Barbara Wilhite Immediate Past Chair Barbara L. Wilhite, P.A. Denyse Bales-Chubb Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel Lew Friedland Adam Smith Enterprises, Inc. Patrick Gassaway Heidt Design, LLC Steven Hickman First National Bank of Pasco Chris LaFace RIPA & Associates LLC Jeffrey Lampasso BB&T Mike Lawson Metro Development Rick Lentz Cutler Associates, Inc. Joe Marina Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative Dewey Mitchell Berkshire Hathaway Florida Properties Group Joseph Munier Wells Fargo Danielle Ruiz Duke Energy Lawrence Rupp Suncoast Credit Union Lex Smith SunTrust Bank Trey Starkey Starkey Land Company, LLC Eric Weekes Saint Leo University Ken West Medical Center of Trinity EX OFFICIO Commissioner Mike Wells Mayor Camille Hernandez Dan Biles, Pasco County Jerome Salatino, CareerSource Cissy Proctor August 15, 2018 Executive Director Florida Department of Economic Opportunity 107 East Madison Street, Caldwell Building Tallahassee, FL Re: Letter of Support for Florida Job Growth Grant Fund Workforce Training Grant Proposal Dear Ms. Proctor: On behalf of the Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) and partner with the ICTC Governing Board, dba American Manufacturing Skills Initiative (AmSkills), I strongly believe that the AmSkills Apprenticeship Program will continue to have a positive economic impact for the Tampa Bay Region by growing the skilled advanced manufacturing workforce to meet employer needs in our communities as well as increase economic opportunities for the State of Florida. I fully support their proposal to expand on the success they have achieved thus far. Pasco EDC is a strong supporter of AmSkills, an industry-led economic and workforce development organization, to develop a European-Style apprenticeship and training program to Tampa Bay residents seeking a career in advanced manufacturing. Their unique tri-county partnership of Hernando, Pasco and Pinellas counties, manufacturing companies, government agencies, school districts, local colleges, veteran organizations, workforce board, and social service providers are working together to fill the Tampa Bay area s high demand for a variety of Advanced Manufacturing jobs. When companies come to us looking to make their location decisions for relocation or expansions, one of the first things they normally ask is what about the quality of our workforce. A building and a site is really just a building and a site, but without a quality workforce those companies cannot guarantee the sustainability of a good talent pipeline for their business growth of the future. AmSkills is helping us to provide a talent pipeline for the manufacturing industry in our county. By signing this letter, I demonstrate a strong commitment to continue our partnership with the AmSkills program to increase the number of Apprentices within the manufacturing industry and support their proposal for the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund Workforce Grant Proposal. Thank you for your consideration of this highly inclusive project. Sincerely, Bill Cronin President & CEO

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33 August 11, 2018 Cissy Proctor Executive Director Florida Department of Economic Opportunity 107 East Madison Street Caldwell Building Tallahassee, FL Re: Letter of Support for Florida Job Growth Grant Fund Workforce Training Grant Proposal Dear Ms. Proctor: On behalf of Pharmaworks, Inc, one of the largest manufacturers in Pasco County, and Chairperson of the ICTC Governing Board dba American Manufacturing Skills Initiative (AmSkills), I strongly believe that the AmSkills Apprenticeship Program will continue to have a positive economic impact for the Tampa Bay Region by growing the skilled advanced manufacturing workforce to meet employer needs in our communities and will increase economic opportunities for the State of Florida. I fully support their proposal to expand on the success they have achieved thus far. Pharmaworks has already benefited from AmSkills and currently has three Apprentices working at our company. These young adults have proven to be disciplined, express excitement in their Mechatronics training, and have become productive employees for us in a relative short period of time. We have attempted to recruit and hire using traditional staffing companies and placing advertisements, with little success. We are committed to utilizing AmSkills to help us find, train and maintain staff for the future and I suggest others to do the same. Pharmaworks is whole-heartedly committed to continue our partnership with the AmSkills program to increase the number of Apprentices within the manufacturing industry and support their proposal for the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund Workforce Grant Proposal. Thank you for your consideration of this highly inclusive project. Sincerely, Peter Buczynsky President Phamaworks, Inc SUCCESS DR. ODESSA, FL PHONE: FAX:

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35 August 14, 2017 Cissy Proctor Executive Director Florida Department of Economic Opportunity 107 East Madison Street Caldwell Building Tallahassee, FL Re: Letter of Support for Florida Job Growth Grant Fund Workforce Training Grant Proposal Dear Ms. Proctor: On behalf of Accuform Manufacturing, Inc and Member of the ICTC Governing Board dba American Manufacturing Skills Initiative (AmSkills), I strongly believe that the AmSkills Apprenticeship Program will continue to have a positive economic impact for the Tampa Bay Region by growing the skilled advanced manufacturing workforce to meet employer needs in our communities and will increase economic opportunities for the State of Florida. I fully support their proposal to expand on the success they have achieved thus far. Accuform has partnered with AmSkills, an industry-led economic and workforce development organization, to develop a European-Style apprenticeship and training program to Tampa Bay residents seeking a career in advanced manufacturing. Their unique tri-county partnership of Hernando, Pasco and Pinellas Counties, manufacturing companies, government agencies, school districts, local colleges, veteran organizations, workforce board; and social service providers are working together to fill the Tampa Bay area s high demand for a variety of Advanced Manufacturing jobs.

36 By signing this letter, I demonstrate a strong commitment to continue our partnership with the AmSkills program to increase the number of Apprentices within the manufacturing industry and support their proposal for the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund Workforce Grant Proposal. Thank you for your consideration of this highly inclusive project. Sincerely, John Murphy Accuform Manufacturing, Inc. Vice President, Human Resources ICTC Governing Board Member

37 A-8-C PACKAGING MACHINE CORPORATION 811 Live Oak Street, Tarpon Springs, Florida / FAX 727/ February 1, 2018 A-B-C Packaging Machine Corporation, faces significant challenges in developing, recruiting, and maintaining a skilled workforce that meets our long term needs. We support the PMMI Education Mission, "To address the critical shortage of technically skilled employee candidates by elevating awareness of attractive careers in the packaging and processing industry while providing assistance to schools and programs that develop students to excel at those jobs." In addition, we have had the opportunity to visit the AmSkills (American Manufacturing Skills Initiative) program, and we support their proposal to provide an "Industry-Led" European-Style Apprenticeship Training Program for PMMI members and the manufacturing industry, which is in alignment with the PMMI certification programs. The AmSkills program recruits potential candidates from within the local community, school system and other organizations; provides an effective Pre-Apprenticeship program that vets and trains candidates on much needed foundational skills through hands-on experiences; provides continued Apprenticeship training opportunities working in conjunction with manufacturers; and provides a dualcoaching approach which assigns an AmSkills Coach, a pre-trained company Mentor, and the Apprentice for long-term sustainability. It is our understanding that AmSkills currently has more than 175 participating in their youth and adult Pre-Apprenticeship & Apprenticeship programs, which is extremely encouraging to see we have a working program developing a potential pipeline to help us address our workforce needs. Our company is looking forward to working with AmSkills and we anticipate hiring AmSkills Apprentices as they become available. I believe the AmSkills Apprenticeship Training Program has the ability to help us address the highly critical workforce shortage our company and others are facing, and I encourage the PMMI to partner with AmSkills which will benefit not only local PMMI Members, but many others as the AmSkills Model can be replicated in other States. d _L----- Sincerely Mark Reid! c,.- President A-8-C Packaging Machine Corp

38 Packaging Technology 0 BOSCH AmSkills Tom Mudano 7825 Campus Dr. New Port Richey, FL Osgood Industries, Inc. 601 Burban Road Oldsmar. FL Tel Fax Uwe Richter, uwe.richter@bosch.com 07 February 2018 Osgood Industries, Inc., Bosch Packaging Technology, is facing significant challenges in developing internal talent, recruiting, and obtaining a skilled workforce that meet our immediate and long term needs, especially when the economy is booming as it currently is today. With increasing competition and interest in our industry, there is a heightened need for talented workers. We have had the opportunity to visit the AmSkills (American Manufacturing Skills Initiative) program, and WE SUPPORT their proposal to provide an "Industry-Led" European-Style Apprenticeship Training Program for PMMI members and the manufacturing industry, which is in alignment with the PMMI certification programs. The AmSkills program recruits potential candidates from within the local community, school system and other organizations; provides an effective Pre-Apprenticeship program that vets and trains candidates on much needed foundational skills through hands-on experiences; provides continued Apprenticeship training opportunities working in conjunction with manufacturers; and provides a dual-coaching approach which assigns an AmSkills Coach, a pre-trained company Mentor, and the Apprentice for long-term sustainability.

39 Packaging Technology 0 BOSCH It is our understanding that AmSkills currently has more than 175 participating in their youth and adult Pre-Apprenticeship & Apprenticeship programs, which is extremely encouraging to see we have a working program developing the potential pipeline to help us address our workforce needs. Our company is looking forward to working with AmSkills and we anticipate hiring AmSkills Apprentices as they become available. 07 February 2018 Page 2 of 2 I believe the AmSkills Apprenticeship Training Program has the ability to help us address the highly critical workforce shortage our company and others are facing, and I encourage the PMMI Education Committee to partner with AmSkills to establish a Pilot Program, which will benefit not only local PMMI Members, but many others as the AmSkills Model can be replicated in other States. Yours sincerely Osgood Industries, Inc. Uwe Richter

40 My name is Justyn Bowes and I am 19 years old. The first time I had heard of this program was in my high school engineering course and I jumped on it right away. I was accepted into the group at the Hernando AmSkills site, I even ended up with the familiar face of my engineering teacher Mr.Fry. In the first couple years, one of which I was still in high school for, we learned a lot of the basics of hand tools, machining, and mechatronics applications. This helped me greatly in finding a sponsorship from a company close by, Accuform. But until then I had a very difficult time finding a job the conventional way i.e. filling out applications, talking to managers, and handing out my resume. No employer even gave me a call back because of a lack of job experience. Without the skills I gained from classes AmSkills offered I may have had to wait years for an opportunity to get into this career field. In 2018, I transferred to a new company, Pharmaworks and became an official Apprentice. I have been attending more in-depth mechatronics training at AmSkills and I am more interested in it than I ever thought I would be. So far my favorite area has been coding for a micro controller using the c++ coding language. We are currently working on building and coding a robotic arm and I look forward to going further with our projects every time I show with all my classmates. I would encourage anyone interested in this career field to check out AmSkills for themselves, see what it has to offer for them, take some classes, and be open to new paths along the way to find out what they enjoy doing the most. That's what I did and I love it!

41 Dear Mr. Mudano, From the first day I could tell I found the right place. The room was filled with machines I didn't know the names to and people I haven't met before but the instructors made me feel at home. To be surrounded by like-minded people my age who are ready to work and learn really hooked me and before I knew it, I was getting my hands dirty and my feet wet. The more classes I attended, the more I wanted to come back. I was doing work that would make my back sore and my arms quiver, but that was shrouded by how much fun I was having during it all. Years passed like weeks and I look back to the most harsh and painful projects with fondness and a few laughs. The work I was doing got me closer and closer to understanding the field, which was amazing. However, what I find equally amazing is the people I've met along the way. I've met instructors I can consider life mentors that i can always call to when I need help. The friendships that were forged through WD40 and motor grease will continue to follow me through my life. These people I've met and spent the last three years of my life with are my family and I look at them as I would my own flesh and blood. Many people go through their life moving from job to job, working their life away without a passion for what they're doing. Thanks to this program and everyone who supports it, I can proudly say I will never be one of those people. I know exactly what I want to do with my life and strive to improve my understanding of the industry with every steel shaving. AMSkills has been a guiding hand in the dark during a stage in my life fraught with uncertainty. I will always support this program because I know from experience how it can help a child through the most crucial stage in life. I encourage anyone to try out the program if they are willing to do work I show up to every class. I hope the program continues to help people like me find the job that will change their life forever. Sincerely, Justin Tozzi Dear Mr Mudano I'd like to express how thrilled I was when my son Justin Tozzi decided to enroll in the AmSkills manufacturing program. Visiting the different companies and witnessing how they operate was an exciting and educational experience for him. I was amazed and proud to see him and his teammates building projects and operating them. The program teaches leadership, team work and has inspired Justin to pursue a career in engineering. I hope AmSkills continues so other students may benefit from what your program offers. Sincerely, Junique Silva-Tozzi

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43 June 8, 2018 Tom, Thank you for your call. It was good to speak with you this morning. We are on the verge of the next industrial revolution. Your students are going to be at the epicenter of that movement. One educator to another, we must be the champions for those students who need, more than ever, an alternative to a college education. AmSkills has provided my Sons a new path to success. They tried college and found it to be leading them in a direction they did not want to go. They have enjoyed the work and skills they have been able to develop in the program. The remaining piece is to find one of the companies that need a skilled workforce for each of them. Chris and I had a good conversation about that the other day and I look forward to my Sons hearing from him often. Thank you for your work, foresight and long term planning for those who are not interested in a college educated job. You are helping those with a desire for a career that is more hands-on and applied than theoretical in nature. -- Sincerely yours, Len W. Mortensen

44 Mr. Mudano, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the opportunity your organization has provided my son Christopher Baker. He is one of your first year participants in the AmSkills program. We were thrilled to find out that your program would provide him hands on experience. We were looking for a way to continue his education in Engineering since he was a four year student at Nature Coast Tec in the Engineering cluster. Your amazing program has helped develop actual skills that go along with the education system. He is currently a PHSC student pursuing his Engineering Degree while working with Pharmaworks Manufacturing as their Apprentice. You were able to connect him to a wonderful company that allows him to use the practical skills he is learning while attending your classes provided on weekends. The support your company provides to students allows them to be connected to knowledgeable teachers and organizations. Your program is cultivating a bright future for our youth with skills that lead to good paying jobs for all of Hernando County. In a world where you apply for jobs online you need a way to make yourself rise to the top of the application pile. This program allowed my son to rise to the top when pursuing his current position. His bosses have told me that they hope when the day comes he will work for them as an Engineer in their company. It is amazing that your program helped my son solidify a future position with a company that he loves to work at every day. Thanks again for this wonderful opportunity Carolyn Baker

45 An Open Parent Letter From The Parent of an Adult who participated in the AmSkills Pre-Apprentice Program Samuel Gates lives in Hernando County and participated in the AmSkills pilot Adult Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The following is an open letter received from his mother, Michaela Gates on July 17, 2017: Dear Tom, I want to take a minute to explain what finding AmSkills has meant to my family and my son, Sam Gates. From the time Sam was in 8th grade, he knew he wanted to work with his mind and his hands. He spent a whole summer in 9th grade in the Automotive Shop of a friend of ours who let him spend time there to learn. I dropped him off on my way to work and picked him up on the way home. Sam went faithfully every day. He was enthralled. Later we looked into Automotive School, but Sam wasn t sure that was the trade and career choice that was right for him. After High School, Sam took several college courses, and while Sam is extremely intelligent, he was not really engaged in them and didn t do very well. I think we, (Sam, his Dad and I), were looking for the right combination of intellectual and manual/mechanical challenge. It was during my own job search that I came across AmSkills through my friend s husband, Trevor Charlton. Sam is 27 years old and he has tried different jobs (office and mortgage work), but he knew those weren t right for him. Finding Amkills was truly a Godsend. When I told Sam about the Adult Program that was being started, it was the first time in years that he was excited and willing to engage fully. He enjoyed the program, learned excellent skills, feels confident and is looking forward to what the future holds...both the additional learning he will acquire and the fact that it will lead to the TYPE of work in which he is interested. I am a huge advocate of AmSkills. While Sam s Dad and I ushered both our boys toward college, it was obvious that was not the right fit for Sam. I will promote AmSkills wherever I go and to other parents whose kids may have interests other than the college route. You can depend on me to be a supporter forever! Sincerely, Michaela Gates What AmSkills Meant to Samuel Gates (The following are exerpts from Samuel s letter. The full letter is contained on the following pages) Hello, my name is Samuel Gates and I am 27 years old. Near the end 2016, I became unemployed after my contractual employment ended with a mortgage company. I'm the type of person who does not like sitting in a cubicle all day and have always enjoyed being able to work with my hands and being on my feet. I was an apprentice auto mechanic when I was younger and have always been good at fixing, repairing, and making things work. I was at a crossroads in my life and I had the option of getting another job in the mortgage industry or trying to find a new path. I decided to look for a new path, but not being a certified mechanic or having any certified skills to offer employers, I was having a hard time finding a job that would lead me towards that new direction. One day, my mother told me about a new program she had heard about named AmSkills. This program offered to teach knowledge and skills relating to CNC machining, industrial mechanics, and mechatronics. I was very interested as these were exactly the types of knowledge and skills I wanted to learn. I applied to AmSkills and was accepted into the program From day one I was hooked. The program is set up so that the vast majority of the time in class is spent learning "hands on" skills. I learned about many different applications used every day in the manufacturing industry and how to use many of the tools and machines one would find there. My classmates and I learned how to use a wide array of hand tools, manual mills, manual lathes, drill presses and more. We also learned about electronics, pneumatics, hydraulics, CNC mills, CNC lathes, 3D printers and much more. I learned a lot, loved being there, had fun and was excited to go back every day. Having spent much of my youth searching for the right job fit, not knowing what I wanted to do for a career, starting and stopping college a few times, I wish this program had been around when I was younger. I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is mechanically inclined, likes to build/repair things, likes to work with his/her hands, is looking for a career change or has even the slightest interest in the program, to apply and find out if AMSkills could lead him/her to a bright future. Employment Update: Upon completion of the AmSkills Adult Pre-Apprenticeship Program, Samuel was hired by Leadertech, inc., a Hillsborough County manufacturer and he is the first AmSkills Tool & Die Maker Apprentice. Letter from Parent of Hernando County Pre-Apprentice Justin Tozzi. Justin started the AmSkills Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Program in Justin is currently attending Pasco Hernando State College and the AmSkills Mechatronics Training Program while he is pursuing an Engineering Degree; and is expected to be placed working in a part-time Apprenticeship with a local manufacturer while attending college. Gary Mandile, Director Leadertech, Tom Mudano, Exec. Director AmSkills, & Sam Gate Signing Apprenticeship Agreement. Dear Mr Mudano I'd like to express how thrilled I was when my son Justin Tozzi decided to enroll in the AmSkills manufacturing program. Visiting the different companies and witnessing how they operate was an exciting and educational experience for him. I was amazed and proud to see him and his teammates building projects and operating them. The program teaches leadership, team work and has inspired Justin to pursue a career in engineering. I hope AmSkills continues so other students may benefit from what your program offers. Sincerely, Junique Silva-Tozzi